When summertime arrives, it signifies more than just a shift in seasons; it signals a time for relaxation and travel. In the past, vacations often involved leaving your furry companions behind, but nowadays, an increasing number of travelers choose to bring their dogs along on their adventures.
Whether it’s a brief overnight escape or an extended journey, we have compiled some valuable advice to ensure both you and your canine companion have a successful and memorable trip! If you are looking for pet-friendly travel options, then you definitely need to prepare carefully and we will help you with this.
Tips for Optimal Traveling with Your Dog
#1 Arrange a test drive
Before committing to taking a dog on a long journey, it is advisable to test the waters by going on a 2-4 hour test drive. This will help assess their reaction and ensure they can travel without experiencing motion sickness, anxiety, or agitation. If they cannot handle a short trip calmly, it is better to leave them at home, as they will likely be unhappy on a longer journey.
#2 Keep your pet restrained during the ride
Obviously, the cheapest way to travel with a dog is by car, but don’t forget about safety. It is important for drivers to prioritize their safety and that of their pets by ensuring they are properly secured in the vehicle.
Having a dog hopping around the car can be a distraction and compromise the driver’s focus. While airbags are designed to protect humans, they can pose a serious risk to pets if they are in the front seat during an accident. As a result, it is recommended that pets travel in the back seat.
The safest way for a pet to travel is in a carrier that is securely fastened to the seat using a seatbelt or other anchor. It is crucial to choose a carrier that is spacious enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
#3 Bring medications and food
If a pet requires specific medication, it is important for the owner to refill it before the trip to ensure an adequate supply. Additionally, the owner should bring enough food for the entire trip, with a few extra days as a precaution.
This is to avoid the need to buy a different brand of food that the pet is not used to, particularly if they have a specialized diet, as it may cause stomach upset.
#4 Make copies of pet-related documents
If individuals are planning to cross borders or travel internationally, they will require their dog’s health records easily accessible (similar to passports for humans). These records serve as proof that the dog is in good health and has received the necessary vaccinations.
Officials may request to review these records and might either retain the originals or make copies, depending on their procedures. Moreover, individuals will be able to furnish their furry companion’s medical history when visiting a new veterinarian in a foreign country.
For these reasons, it is advisable to keep multiple copies of the dogs’ medical records and veterinary information on hand at all times. This practice ensures that the necessary documentation is readily available.
#5 Book a pet-friendly hotel in advance
If you are looking for the best way to travel with a dog, then you need to learn how to book tickets, hotel rooms, and cars in advance. In many developed countries there are establishments that accept furry companions, but this must be taken care of in advance.
Mac VPN software will help you with this, which will allow you to change your IP address and start searching among local sites. Traveling to the UK? Just download Mac VPN and search for a pet-friendly hotel in London and you will see many options. Another advantage a VPN gives you is the ability to save money. For local people prices may be lower.
#6 Take a pet carrier
There are numerous pet carrier options available on the market. A notable choice is the k9 Sport Sack, a dog carrier backpack specifically designed to accommodate dogs weighing up to 40 lbs.
It is available in multiple colors and offers the ability to personalize with patches. Another alternative worth considering is The Roodie, a pet-carrier hoodie suitable for dogs weighing up to 15 lbs.
#7 Talk with your veterinarian
Before embarking on a trip, it is advisable to have a pre-trip discussion with a veterinarian to gather information about potential health concerns at the intended destination. For travel beyond state borders, whether by car or plane, it is important to obtain a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI). Even for short trips close to home, it is recommended to request an additional copy of the dog’s vaccination records for convenience during travel.
#8 Choose destinations and activities wisely
Some locations are more suitable than others for pets, so it is important to choose wisely. Consider places that allow pets and are the best fit for your dog. A dog that has only lived in the suburbs may feel overwhelmed in a large city like Manhattan.
It is essential to gradually introduce them to new places, people, sounds, and smells. Avoid exposing them to unfamiliar individuals as it can be overwhelming and they may struggle to respond appropriately.
Conclusion
Traveling with a pet is an exciting experience, but requires careful preparation. It is important to assess the dog’s ability to travel calmly in the car; prepare all necessary documents; arrange for food, medications, and other supplies; choose destinations and activities that are suitable for pets; and plan on flexibility. These tips can help individuals create an enjoyable journey with their favorite furry pet.